I hope Square doesn't keep deeming certain content unnecessary

**anhaato** · 07-07-2021 04:57 PM

Originally Posted by DrWho2010

So their vision of what they would like to create shouldn't even enter into the equation at all then? It should always only ever be about what the playerbase wants? No matter how dumb or bad it might be?

I'm sorry I just can't agree with that line of reasoning.

Look, I understand that reasoning completely. Fans often don't know what they actually want, and if they answer our whims blindly it could lead to lots of "be careful what you wish for" moments, which is specifically why we're usually the last people they listen to in regards to job changes. That said, it's not just about the fact that Hildibrand himself was gone, it's that there was no content of that sort at all. People like Hildibrand because it's a funny slapstick comedy storyline that also includes its own battle content, and there was nothing of the sort this pack. It didn't have to be specifically Hildibrand, I just think what you said about the creative vision thing could've been a reasoning for "that's why this time the storyline will be about XYZ instead" instead of "that's why we're not doing it at all."

**anhaato** · 07-07-2021 05:09 PM

Originally Posted by DrWho2010

I don't think people stand up to defend creator creative choices enough. People demand too much these days from their entertainment (and this is just a game, it is not a way of life and too many people are substituting games as such). You ratchet up your expectations way too high, you're gonna get burned by the sun because you've put yourself up there.

IMO one should have ZERO expectations going into anything. That way you can be pleasantly surprised instead of experiencing crushing bitterness.

So what if they added a couple extra months to the production schedule? That's two more months I have to do other things. I'm in no hurry here.

I can't agree with that. When content starts to be repeated over the course of two or three packs (depending on what you consider ARR to be in this discussion), then it should come as no surprise that people will expect it to be praxis for the game going forward. We got deep dungeons for Heavensward and Stormblood, and they were both very popular, so it's not unreasonable for a good number of people to have been like "man I can't wait to see what they'll do for this next pack!" and then be disappointed with it not happening at all. But, again, that's why it's a good thing that we're likely getting one in 6.x! Because Square can see our disappointment, and they're doing their best to respond in kind. Expectations are what keep developers on their toes and delivering quality. If the playerbase was in the mindset of going in expecting nothing like you suggest, then there would be no reason for them to deliver the level of content this game is known for, the level of content that led it to (allegedly) overtaking retail WoW as the MMO with the most active players. The game prides itself in being full of things to do with no real pressure to do any of it, so to start trimming off large chunks of it for good, including stuff that was very popular, just doesn't make sense and would be bad practice going forward. They clearly realize this as well.

And believe me, I'm not upset about the delay. I was upset at first because of the vague promise of "fall" sounding like it would release around late September based on the combination of precedent and delays, but if they're taking this extra time then that means they're working hard to deliver something befitting the end of this 11 year storyline. FARRRRR be it from me to take to doomerisms about this game. I'm excited for the next pack, while believing they'll deliver on their promises.

**DrWho2010** · 07-07-2021 07:00 PM